After a series of failed attempts, Uttar Pradesh batsman Suresh Raina has finally cleared the Yo-Yo test, a test which is required to enter the national camp. The out of favour swashbuckler cleared a big hurdle, which will help the left-handed batsman to make a return to Team India.
The 31-year-old batsman took to Twitter to announce his successful completion of the Yo-Yo test at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bangalore. Raina wrote: "Cleared my Yo-Yo & fitness test today, after days of hard work at #NCA! Received tremendous support from all the trainers, coaches & officials. Thank you all! It’s always so encouraging to train here at #NCA, motivates me to push my limits and bring the best out of me".
Raina last sported the blue cap in a T20I series when India hosted England earlier this year in February. The southpaw was omitted from the national squad because of fitness issues.
Raina and Yuvraj Singh had failed the Yo-Yo test, due to which both the cricketers missed the recent series. Recently, Yuvraj had also cleared the test that makes a strong case for his comeback in the Indian squad.
The test comprises a multi-stage variation of the beep, which is used to determine a player's endurance.
Even though Raina and Yuvraj passed the Yo-Yo test, their inclusion in the squad will be difficult as the young players have impressed and replaced experienced cricketers. Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja are now Test material after players like Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal have taken the cricket world by storm with their spells in the limited-overs format.
Raina, at the age of 31, will aim to make a strong comeback once provided with an opportunity. The UP batsman has represented his state well in the ongoing Ranji Trophy. Raina, who was a part of the World Cup-winning squad in 2011, will aim to raise the standards if he manages to make a comeback.
